James advises drivers to “always pay close attention to the parking rules set out on signs in the car park” (Picture posed by model)

How to beat the parking charges

Most people get into difficulties by ignoring private parking charges – so don’t get mad, get even.

If you get a ticket, speak to the parking company straight away and ask them to hold fire on charges while you gather some evidence. Put this in writing or put them on notice through Resolver. Photo your receipts and tickets too, just in case the originals go missing.

Explain the circumstances that lead to the charge, keep a record of all your comments and ask them to respond in writing. Some parking firms may be intimidating to deal with. This is to get you to get you to pay up.

Photograph the car park (make sure your licence plate is visible), notices, ground markings and payment machines. Parking information should be clearly placed and not hidden. Lots of people have successfully appealed fees after bushes or trees swallowed up the warning signs.

Do a bit of research online. Wonky payment machines, dodgy attendants and firms and other problems are often discussed on online forums. Take a screenshot or links that prove there’s a problem with that parking area or firm.

Some people get caught out by a sudden, unannounced change of rules. If you’ve been regularly parking and suddenly been ticketed, ask for proof as to how people have been notified about this new policy.

Talk to the landowner. Many supermarket managers can cancel your ticket so stay calm and explain what’s gone on.

Many parking companies have free periods. If these aren’t clearly explained – or you’ve been charged while still in one, you have the right to take it further.

If you want to make a complaint about a private parking company you could use a free service like Resolver. The system allows you to construct a complaint, keep track of any communication, and escalate your case to POPLA (Parking on Private Land Appeals).

James commented: “Of course, the best way of avoiding paying parking tickets is to not get them in the first place.

“Always pay close attention to the parking rules set out on signs in the car park.

“Make sure you’re looking at the right part of the information, as rules may differ depending on the time and day of the week.

“If you’re still unsure about anything try and find a parking attendant or other member of staff to talk to.”